Networking and My Computer

Hi, I'm using XP pro and set up a network with my other computer with
Win 98SE. But now a day later the XP computer can't see the other one.
I can see the workgroup, but not the other PC which should of course be
there. If I want to 'view network computers' or 'view network
connections' through 'My Network Places' it just hangs until I press
ctrl-alt-del and choose 'end task'. Now I could go through the hassle
of setting up the network again every time I want to use it, but that
would be a pain. Anyone got any ideas as to where I should look?

And another question: The other day the 'My Computer' icon disappeared
off the desktop. It did not go to the recycle bin. And I have no idea
as to where it might be. How do I get it back again?